I thought my husband would always stand by me. But the night I found him with my best friend, my world shattered. I fled, blinded by tears, not seeing the sharp turn ahead.
I had a loving husband, a daughter I adored, and a best friend I trusted. Life felt perfect—cozy dinners, laughter, bedtime kisses.
Mark was my rock, always making me laugh. Sophie, our joyful six-year-old, loved bedtime stories and dance parties.
Then there was Sarah, my best friend. When she didn’t want to celebrate her birthday, I decided to surprise her with her favorite cake. But when I walked into her house, I found Mark and Sarah too close. I dropped the cake, turned, and ran into the storm, my hands shaking as I tried to start the car. I pressed the gas too hard and lost control.
I woke up in a hospital bed, paralyzed from the waist down. The doctor’s words were a blur. Panic hit as I saw Sophie, fear in her eyes. Mark stood cold and distant, his face unreadable. Then he said, “I’m leaving.”
Alone, I was left with only Sophie to hold onto. I had to get back on my feet for her.
Rehabilitation was brutal. Then came Alex, my physical therapist. He pushed me when I wanted to give up. Slowly, I started to make progress, but it was hard.
One day, Sophie returned, beaming with excitement about her time with Mark and Sarah. She asked if we could go to the amusement park together. I wanted to say yes, but my body couldn’t keep up. My legs wouldn’t move.
That evening, Mark called, saying Sophie should live with him. He didn’t ask. He just decided. I was crushed.
The betrayal hurt more than anything, but I had to stay strong for Sophie.